What if My Child is Finding Their Homework too Easy?
Every class is made up of a variety of students with differing interests, abilities, strengths and weaknesses. When it comes to homework, teachers are saddled with the tricky job of devising a task to suit everyone. It is often the case that one size does not fit all. Although many homework tasks can challenge a range of students working at different levels, the brightest or most hard working of children may feel that work is occasionally, or frequently, too easy for them. This can demotivate the child, hinder their academic progress and cause them to feel frustrated. However, if your child is finding tasks too simple, there is no need for them to despair. With a little careful thought and some planned action, their homework life can be improved.
Complete the Work
Even if your child feels that the task they have been set is ridiculously simple, it is vital to encourage them to complete it and hand it in on time. Completing work in this way is respectful to the teacher. Any discussion or negotiation regarding future homework tasks is likely to go far more smoothly if your child has made every effort to show that they care about their education and take pride in their work. In completing the task set, your child may discover that the work is not as straightforward as they initially thought; they may even find their study session to be enjoyable and beneficial.Go Further
If it takes just a few minutes for your child to complete their homework task, encourage them to go further with it. Suggest that they devise their own extension work, based on an aspect of the original piece of homework. Using their imagination in this way will empower them to feel in charge of their own learning. This is particularly important for those who may feel upset that their academic needs are not currently being catered for. Devising and completing extra tasks will also highlight your child's motivation. If this extra work is submitted, it will no doubt please and impress the teacher and clearly show the child's ability and desire to work at a higher level.Speak to the Teacher
It may sound obvious, but if your child's teacher is not aware of your child's feelings and needs, they will not be able to take steps to remedy the situation. If your child feels confident enough, they may wish to speak to the teacher themselves. You might like to talk through in advance what they plan to say. For example, they might plan to ask to be set extension tasks to complete in addition to other homework. Alternatively, they might ask to be given separate work that is pitched at a different level. If it is not appropriate for your child to speak to their teacher, you might like to write them a letter or send them an email explaining the situation. You might even like to book an appointment with them in order to discuss the matter face to face.However you choose to approach the issue, remember that the majority of teachers have a huge amount of work on their hands at any one time and must constantly juggle with the needs and abilities of a startling variety of students. If you and your child show an awareness of this, the discussion is likely to go smoothly and a successful solution is sure to be found.
